Post by ellise on Nov 14, 2005 23:37:06 GMT 10
Running around all day can put a lot of stress on your feet! So be sure to take some time out to treat your toes and make them look pretty! You don't need to go to a fancy spa to get a complete foot makeover — you can get the same results at home! Try this step-by-step guide to the perfect pedicure — and don't forget to show off your toes this summer:
* Fill up the bathtub with hot water, add bath salts or bubble bath, and soak your feet for 10 to 15 minutes. Relax and take a few minutes to read a book or magazine.
* Now that your feet are nice and soft, get rid of any dead skin or calluses from your feet. Use a pumice stone or any type of nail buffer with a rough surface to rub away that extra skin. It won't hurt — don't worry!
* Next, work on the toenails — use a nail clipper to trim your nails and then file them to give your toenails shape and to clean up the edges. Make sure your toenails are a comfortable length, but not too short because you want to avoid ingrown toenails!
* Now it's time for the nail polish! Use a toenail separator, or roll up a piece of Kleenex and wind it between your toes to prevent smudges or bumps while you apply the polish. Brush a clear base coat onto each nail to protect it from turning a strange yellow color due to the polish.
* Choose your polish color. Bright pinks and reds are great summertime colors! Begin by applying the first coat to each nail. Make sure to use smooth strokes in the direction away from your foot, to avoid air bubbles in the polish. Apply a second coat if you want a darker or richer color!
* End with a clear top coat. This will help the nails dry faster and protect them from chips and breaks! Let your toes dry for 10 to 15 minutes. To speed things up, you can use your blow-dryer!